Jan. 16

Laid-back without being stupefying, the shoe-gazed rock Americana of Camp Howard is a mellifluous journey to the edge of mellow. I say the edge because the group, led by singer, songwriter and guitarist Nic Perea, doesn’t fall into the abyss of navel gazing. The largely midtempo affair has an undercurrent of melodic tautness that gives the music its relaxed, muted vigor. Fans of the blissed-out tensions made by Will Oldham, Iron and Wine and Andrew Bird should plan their next vacation at Camp Howard. The group plays Saturday, Jan. 16, at Strange Matter. Indie rockers Sea Ghost from Atlanta and Richmond groups Super Ghoul and Candy Spots open. Doors open at 8 p.m. $5.

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